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Old Nov 30, 2010 | 07:40 AM
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Differential swap

I am looking to change the one wheel peel, to a LSD or a locker. My truck is used for a DD around town and at the farm. As a dually, there are many traction problems when under wet or snowy conditions. The rear end is going to be rebuilt soon and I thought I might as well go with a LSD/locker rear end.
Does anyone have any thoughts on what would be the best way to go.
I don't mind spending the money, if I can get what I want that will work good. Thanks
 
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Old Nov 30, 2010 | 08:17 AM
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What gear ratio is in your truck?
 
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Old Nov 30, 2010 | 08:29 AM
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I think it is 3.73, but I will need to confirm.
 
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Old Nov 30, 2010 | 08:41 AM
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I believe dullies have 4.10 gears in them. There is a tag on the cover that will tell you.
 
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Old Nov 30, 2010 | 10:18 AM
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I thought so too. I will have to look closer. It just seems to be a little high geared to me.
It really doesn't matter what the gear ratio is, I still have to replace it. I would just like some input on aftermarket LSD's or lockers, if anyone has any ideas.
When it comes apart, the correct ratio will go back in.
 
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Old Nov 30, 2010 | 10:24 AM
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x2 on the 4.10 gears factory in a dually. I would highly recommend the Eaton Detroit lockers, they are plenty tough, and you never have to worry about any friction additive in the diff or worn out locker clutch plates or steels. They are a little pricey, but in my opinion the best out there. Although there are plenty of other LSD out there, even the factory ones aren't bad, and any LS is better in those conditions than an open diff, especially with a dually.

Detroit Locker Differentials
 
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Old Nov 30, 2010 | 11:14 AM
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Thanks Ziggy, that's the way I was leaning. It's an old name with a good rep. I have not been able to find a Canadian dealer as yet, so I guess I will have to call them directly.
Thanks again for the input.
 
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Old Nov 30, 2010 | 01:08 PM
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I have the detroit True-trac in my truck and it seems to work good, clutch type limited slips wear out, the true-trac is geared, doesnt wear out near as quick. Plus there stronger from what Ive been told.
 
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Old Nov 30, 2010 | 01:20 PM
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My LSD isn't bad... I can't get outta my drive without tearing up the gravel because of how tight my LSD is. The way my drive comes out is to the left, there's a crest i n the hill I can't see over and to the right there's a curve... so, I have to get my truck out fast or else I'll get smashed! The result? I tore up drive... new tires don't help either!
 
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Old Nov 30, 2010 | 01:38 PM
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The reason I asked was because mine is a F350 and it came with 3.73 gears and I had a hard enough time trying to find a locker for it I went back with an open rear end. I am curious if you find what you are looking for PM me as I am curious to know how much it cost! Thanks
 
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Old Nov 30, 2010 | 02:35 PM
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Originally Posted by a-rod
I have the detroit True-trac in my truck and it seems to work good, clutch type limited slips wear out, the true-trac is geared, doesnt wear out near as quick. Plus there stronger from what Ive been told.
I just spoke to Eaton and that's what they think would work the best. However, I spoke to their distributor and he says an Auburn would be just as good for less money.
Have you heard of Auburn diff's?
 
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Old Nov 30, 2010 | 03:28 PM
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If you never have driven a truck with a detroit locker you are in for a bit of a surprise on how they act on pavement vs low traction surfaces. First if you power around a corner on pavement the rear end can load up with tension then let loose with a bang as you staighten out. Perfectly normal but some people don`t like it. If you are in snow and NOT in four wheel drive the whole back end can break loose, not much fun, depending on circumstances.Lockers like to have identical air pressures in the tires since both wheels are being driven.Tire wear can be acelerated if you don`t watch your tire pressures.They don`t recommend syth fluid, use 75w-140 ep gear oil. Detroits are awsome when you are in four wheel drive. I have had one four twenty years and after getting used to them they are great, never had any problems. Roy
 
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Old Nov 30, 2010 | 07:27 PM
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I put a aburn in mine and have not had any probs and it really works great on pav as well as off road way better than my old one wheel wonder!
 
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Old Nov 30, 2010 | 09:21 PM
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The auburn LS in my 79 chevy pickup only lasted maybe 100,000 miles, It dont work at all anymore, she one-tire-fire. Clutch type LS.
 
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Old Nov 30, 2010 | 09:32 PM
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I was looking into getting a locker for my dually,I wanted a selectable locker but was told that the only thing that would fit the Dana 80 is the Detroit Locker, and that it isn't recommended for vehicles that see little off-road use. I have a limited slip but the slip isn't too limited lately, I think the clutches are worn out. I'm anxious to see what you find out.
 
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